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'I couldn't risk going ahead [with the show]. It was a heartbreaking decision but I had no choice.

'If the slipped disc had popped out while I was dancing, I could have ended up with permanent nerve damage and been in a wheelchair.'

The 34-year-old, who has been on Strictly since 2010, had to miss some of the series when he was temporarily struck down with back problems last year.

Surprise hit: His 'heartbreaking' decision to leave comes after he became a fan favourite following his stint on the show with actress Lisa Riley in 2012

Dancing dragon: Businesswoman Deborah Meaden took to the floor with Robin last year, when he first started experience back problems

In his four years on the show, he has been partnered with Patsy Kensit, Anita Dobson, Lisa Riley and Deborah Meaden.

Announcing his departure, he said: 'I'm devastated to have to pull out of Strictly this year due to a pre-existing back injury. It's been a really difficult decision, but I plan to focus one hundred per cent on my recovery and hope to be back in the ballroom as soon as possible, doing what I love best.

'In the meantime, I wish the rest of the cast and crew the best of luck with the new series which I'll be watching every week.'

Big shoes to fill: Australian dance star Trent Whiddon will replace Robin. He has already appeared on the US and Aussie versions, both called Dancing with the Stars

Strictly's executive producer, Louise Rainbow, added: 'We are of course sad to lose Robin from this year's show. He is a valued member of the Strictly family and we wish him the very best with his recovery.'

He will be replaced by Australian dance star Trent Whiddon, who has already appeared on the US and Aussie versions of Strictly - Dancing With The Stars - and has also performed on Broadway.

He began dancing at the age of seven, winning youth and junior titles Down Under, going on to join the cast of dance show Burn The Floor in his teens, subsequently spending 12 years with the company.

Trent, who has also been choreographer on the Australian version of TV hit So You Think You Can Dance, said: 'I am so excited to have been asked to join Strictly. It's such an honour to be a part of the show and I can't wait to step onto the famous Strictly dancefloor.'

Artem Chigvintsev and James Jordan will not be taking part in the 2014 series. It will be hosted by Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman, after veteran presenter Sir Bruce Forsyth announced he was stepping down.

Keeping fit: While he's 'devastated' to be dropping out, Robin is determined to stay on top of his health